Description
Ionized calcium, also known as free calcium, is the amount of calcium in your blood that is not attached to proteins. It's an essential part of many bodily functions, including:
- Bone and teeth: Calcium helps build strong bones and teeth.
- Heart function: Ionized calcium regulates the rate and rhythm of your heart.
- Muscle contraction: Calcium is required for muscle contraction.
- Nerve signaling: Calcium is important for nerve signaling.
- Blood clotting: Calcium helps with blood clotting.
To prepare for an ionized calcium test, you'll need to fast for six hours before the test, which means you shouldn't eat or drink anything other than water. You should also discuss any medications you're taking with your doctor, as some may need to be stopped before the test.
